Lentil Stew with Vegetables and Bacon

Steps

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1. 1
   Rinse the lentils and place in a pot with water, a small piece of onion, and a garlic clove. Bring to a boil and simmer until partially cooked.
   ▶ ≈0:35
2. 2
   Once the lentils are partially tender, add salt and continue cooking until almost completely soft.
   ▶ ≈1:25
3. 3
   While the lentils cook, prepare all vegetables: peel and dice the carrots into small pieces, cut the zucchini into small pieces, mince the jalapeños, peel and dice the tomatoes into small pieces, and mince the onion.
   ▶ ≈1:35
4. 4
   Slice the bacon into thin strips.
   ▶ ≈3:05
5. 5
   Heat a small amount of oil in a pot or skillet and brown the bacon strips lightly.
   ▶ ≈3:17
6. 6
   Once the bacon is lightly browned, add the diced tomatoes and minced onion, stirring until the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
   ▶ ≈3:26
7. 7
   Add all the prepared diced vegetables (carrots, zucchini, jalapeños) and sauté for a few minutes until softened.
   ▶ ≈3:48
8. 8
   Pour the cooked lentils with their cooking liquid into the vegetable mixture and gently stir to combine. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
   ▶ ≈4:17
9. 9
   Allow the stew to simmer until all flavors meld together and the lentils are completely tender and well-seasoned. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if desired.
   ▶ ≈5:03